Get the most of Australia's East Coast on this tour to explore and relax. Take in the crystal clear waters and the lush tropical settings of this magnificent island. Ride the Captain Cook Highway with rainforest on one side and the Great Barrier Reef on the other, it's not your typical road trip. You'll make friends for life as you explore Down Under with this Contiki Australia travel package.

Itinerary

01

Day 1-2: The Whitsundays

Meet up with the other Contiki travellers and your Trip Manager in the famous Whitsundays. Soak up the island’s crystal clear waters and white sands. Tonight, get to know your group and your crew over dinner.,,The time is then yours to enjoy the picture-perfect Whitsundays! Slow the pace down, kick back and relax.,,For those that are up for it, you could get away from it all with our optional day sail. Check out some of the Whitsunday’s 74 islands from the boat – you’ll soon understand why this region is so famous. Experience what is known as one of the top ten beaches in the world, the uninhabited Whitehaven Beach. Swim off the boat and play beach volleyball or cricket with the local skipper and crew before enjoying a tasty lunch and a few drinks.

02

Day 3: The Whitsundays to Cairns

Today we head deeper into the tropics of Australia when we hit Townsville for some free time. Check out the colonial buildings and get a feel for its maritime past as we drive along the esplanade and into town where you can grab some lunch.,,Tonight we head out to a local restaurant for dinner where you have the opportunity to try kangaroo, amongst other delicious Australian delicacies. In your free time, walk around the buzzing night markets. It’s the perfect place for shopping and with everything from fun, kitsch treasures to local crafts like boomerangs and didgeridoos.

03

Day 4-5: Cairns

Wake up to the warm waters of Cairns where there’s something for everyone. This is your chance to experience the Great Barrier Reef on an optional day trip. If you have always wanted to go scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef then this is your chance! There are scuba diving options for both certified and introductory divers (no experience necessary). Check out the amazing World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, you are sure to see one of Nemo's cousins, tiny schooling fish right up to giant Maori wrasse and if you're lucky, even a small reef shark! There are local marine biologists on board to answer 'which fish is that?' On day 2, for those who are keen for a fun and thrilling ride, join our optional whitewater rafting adventure activity with our professional Local Guides. There are loads more activities available in Cairns like bungy jumping – just ask your Trip Manager for some more info. Catch up with your new buddies to swap stories on your day at a local hot spot. The food and entertainment is sure to leave a lasting impression!

04

Day 6: Cairns to Cape Tribulation

We hit the road following the Coral Sea past remote beaches and gorgeous scenery to the lush, tropical Daintree Rainforest. Get back to nature as we walk through this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site with a local aboriginal guide who will teach you about the culture and traditions of the native people. You will also head to a stunningly clear swimming-hole in Mossman Gorge, where you can cool off in the waters.,,Heading further north to Cape Tribulation, you have the option to go jungle surfing on zip lines through the rainforest canopy or go kayaking off Cape Tribulation and see turtles swimming beneath and eagles soaring overhead.,,We overnight in Cape Tribulation.

05

Day 7: Cape Tribulation to Cairns

Head to the lookout point at Cape Tribulation. The only place in the world where two UNESCO heritage listed sites meet. Next, make a splash in a local watering hole then check out the mangroves on a walk with our local guide.,,Next up is Port Douglas, known for its idyllic white sands and palms trees. This resort town attracts the rich & famous, travellers and families alike. You’ll soon see why.,,This afternoon it’s back to Cairns, where your tour ends at 4:00pm.

The Whitsundays to Cairns: Townsville city orientation,See Magnetic Island,Pass Hinchinbrook Island - Australia's largest island national park,Pass through Tully, home to Australia's best whitewater rafting

Cairns: Cairns city orientation

Cairns to Cape Tribulation: Aboriginal experience at Mossman Gorge

Cape Tribulation to Cairns: Swim in a local waterhole,Mangrove boardwalk with our expert guide,Visit the resort town of Port Douglas

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